Moles are small coloured spots on the skin that grow in a cluster instead of being spread throughout the skin. These spots are made up of cells called melanocytes, which produce the colour or pigment in your skin. Moles may darken after exposure to the sun, during puberty and during pregnancy and can range from pink or brown to black in colour. Moles may present flat or raised, oval or circular and are common, you can be born with them, inheriting them genetically or they can form from sun exposure. Although number of moles varies from person to person, fair skinned people generally have more moles due to lower amounts of melanin in their skin, and the average adult has between 10 and 40 moles.

Most of the time these moles are harmless. However, we need to conduct skin checks regularly (Dr Rippon recommends monthly, especially if you have a relative with skin cancer, or at least every three months) to see if our moles have changed. In rare circumstances a cancer known as Melanoma can arise within a pre-existing mole. These moles will need to be removed for the safety of the patient. In most cases however, moles are benign and harmless. Often, patients would like them removed for cosmetic or practical reasons as they often catch on clothing or jewellery causing discomfort.

How will my mole be removed?

Dr Rippon will use surgical excision to guarantee permanent mole removal. This procedure can leave a small scar which will improve over time. The treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic to reduce discomfort. Dr Rippon will use a scalpel to excise the mole, leaving a small linear scar roughly the size of the mole removed which will improve over time. (PRP can be used to improve and shorten the time of improvement - please see the use of platelet rich plasma on our website). The wound will then be stitched and a dressing applied. Benefits of removing moles by surgery is that moles can be sent off for histology to test for malignancy. Prior to treatment, Dr Rippon will go through a medical aesthetic consultation with you. He will assess your mole and decide whether it is suitable for treatment. If treatment is decided you will be able to book an appointment for the procedure to be carried out by Dr Rippon at his clinic, Rippon Medical Services, 2 Spinners Yard, Fisher Street, Carlisle, CA3 8RE. You will be given after care instructions and will be reviewed at 7 days by Dr Rippon for removal of any sutures and have your wound checked. You will be covered by our aftercare procedure promise and be given access to advice post procedure at any time.